Robert J. v. Leslie M.

Robert J. (appellant) judicially admitted being the legal father of Ryan R. in April of 1990. In February 1995, he sought a declaration of nonpaternity. The trial court applied the doctrine of res judicata and denied relief. We affirm.

Facts and Procedural History

Appellant and Leslie M. (Leslie) were never married but had a brief sexual relationship. In May 1989, Ryan R. (Ryan) was bom to Leslie in Texas. Appellant moved from Texas to California in June 1989. In March 1990, the Ventura County District Attorney Child Support Division filed a complaint to establish that appellant was the father of Ryan. (Welf. & Inst. Code, §§ 11350, 11350.1.) Although he did not believe he was Ryan’s father, appellant stipulated to paternity in April 1990. He did not ask for appointment of counsel or demand blood tests. (Fam. Code, § 7550 et seq. [formerly Evid. Code, § 890 et seq.].) Appellant admitted to paternity because he was concerned that a paternity suit would jeopardize his application to become a deputy sheriff in San Diego. He agreed to pay $204 per month child support, and to continue support until Ryan reached the age of majority. Appellant was also ordered to reimburse…